The car is powered by a new iteration of the 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine already used in the 650S and P1, designated M838T E with thirty percent of the parts redesigned. Arranged in the car as a rear-mid engine configuration, it delivers 562 hp (570 PS; 419 kW) and 443 lb⋅ft (601 N⋅m) of torque through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission developed by Graziano Trasmissioni. The car can accelerate from 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) in 3.2 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 204 mph (328 km/h). A total dry weight of 2,989 lb (1,356 kg) and maximum weight of 3,201 lb (1,452 kg) gives the 570S a power to weight ratio of 428 PS per tonne delivering a fuel economy of 25.5 miles per imperial gallon (11.1 L/100 km; 21.2 mpg‑US) and CO2 emissions of 249 g/km.

McLaren focused on delivering "day-to-day usability and driveability" against the most sporting model options in its range with increased luggage space, greater interior storage and leather upholstery options. The car is designed with aerodynamics in mind and the teardrop shaped cockpit helps achieve that objective. The rear of the car is inspired by the P1 and borrows the slim LED tail lights and diffuser styling from the flagship sports car. The car features dihederal doors, a trademark of McLaren as featured on its ultimate and super series cars.